Tips for Sewing Zippers
When it comes to sewing skills that feel intimidating to learn, zippers are often at the top of beginners’ lists. Zippers are found on tons of sewing projects- bags, dresses, jackets… zippers are everywhere! If you are new to sewing zippers it might feel scary to learn, but I promise zippers are much easier to sew than they may seem.
Today I am going to tell you about some of our favorite tips and tricks for sewing zippers, and share some patterns you can try as you learn (many of them are FREE!!!). Check out the caption of each photo for a link to the pattern!
Tip 1: Use Interfacing!
Press a strip of iron-on interfacing to the edge of the fabric you will sew the zipper to, to help stabilize the material, particularly if you are using knit fabrics. Sturdy woven fabrics may not need interfacing, but stretch fabrics definitely do.
Zipper tape is woven and has no stretch, so to prevent warping/waving in the fabric, interfacing must be used to stabilize the fabric so that it will not stretch underneath the zipper.
Tip 2: Sew the Same Direction!
Always sew a zipper the same direction- every side, every seam. Your zipper will sew on much more evenly, and will line up at each point.
Sewing in different directions (start to stop for one side of the zipper, stop to start for the other) can cause the fabric to be pushed in opposing directions and prevent the two sides from lining up as accurately.
Tip 3: Use a Zipper Foot!
Use a zipper presser foot. Trying to sew a zipper with a standard presser foot will make it much harder. A zipper presser foot allows room for the zipper teeth to pass by while still being able to get the needle close to them.
Additionally, it can be helpful to move the needle position to get a more accurate position for your stitch line. Because you need to always sew the same direction, you will likely be switching your zipper foot from one side to the other with each direction, so don’t forget to also change needle position!
Tip 4: BASTE!
Baste, baste, baste! Basting is worth it every single time when it comes to zippers! Baste by hand, or with the longest stitch length on your machine. You can also use basting glue or washaway basting tape.
Check that the zipper position is accurate with your basting, then do your seam. Remove the basting stitches after sewing. It is absolutely worth the time and effort to baste first, to assure you get your zipper just right every time.
Tip 5: Take Your Time
The biggest key to excellent zippers is precision in your sewing- accurate seam allowances, measurements, stitch length, etc. make a huge difference. Take time with these things, as it will pay off in the end! If you are new to sewing zippers, practice! Grab some inexpensive zippers and just practice sewing them until you feel confident.
For even more FREE patterns to try while you practice sewing zippers, try these!
Need more help sewing zippers? Join our Facebook group of a wonderful community of sewists, for encouragement, support, all things sewing!
